SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Trae Young’s dominating performance on offense culminated in a sensational buzzer-beater to secure a 124-121 victory for the Atlanta Hawks over the Utah Jazz in a thrilling game on Tuesday night.
Young, the standout player for the Hawks, showcased his skills with 24 points and an impressive 20 assists while committing only two turnovers. His heroics weren’t limited to his offensive prowess, as he demonstrated his ability to control the game from start to finish.
The game-winning moment came in the dying seconds when Young launched a jaw-dropping 49-foot 3-pointer from just behind the halfcourt line, sealing the Hawks’ triumph in dramatic fashion. This remarkable shot followed a game-tying 3-pointer by Utah’s Collin Sexton with only four seconds remaining.
Reflecting on his clutch performance, Young expressed his confidence in his team’s ability to score when time is running out, stating, “When there’s time left, I always feel like we can score.”
Known as the Hawks’ franchise leader in both assists and made 3-pointers, Young exemplified his playmaking abilities throughout the game. He orchestrated the offense expertly, delivering seven assists before even scoring his first basket in the second quarter, setting the tone for Atlanta’s early lead.
Despite building a commanding 16-point lead in the first half, the Hawks faced a resilient Utah Jazz comeback, creating a tense and closely contested conclusion to the game. Young’s versatility and vision on the court were on full display, as he emphasized his role as a facilitator, saying, “I always get guys involved, always been able to find people. I feel like I’m the kind of guy who can pass you open.”
Young’s late-game heroics included a series of crucial plays that proved pivotal in securing the victory for the Hawks. From reclaiming the lead with a step-back 3-pointer to setting up his teammates for crucial baskets, Young showcased his maturity and leadership under pressure.
Hawks coach Quin Snyder praised Young’s growth and efficiency, highlighting his ability to impact the game both as a scorer and a playmaker. Snyder commended Young for his strategic decision-making and understanding of when to assert himself offensively, a quality that has been instrumental in the team’s success.
In the decisive moments of the game, Young’s confidence and composure shone through as he calmly executed the game-winning shot with precision and finesse. With just a couple of dribbles and a well-calculated halfcourt heave, Young delivered a shot that will be remembered as one of the defining moments of his career.
Reflecting on his game-winning shot, Young explained his thought process, stating, “I could take a couple of dribbles and be closer to halfcourt and then I made sure I used my legs and put some air into the ball and that was important.”
Young’s remarkable performance against the Utah Jazz not only highlighted his individual brilliance but also
